The Collaboration of Social Work & Criminal Justice

The importance of social work lies in the ability of individuals, families, and communities to thrive. It is important to note that social work encompasses a wide range of professions. However, this creative project will examine its different dimensions, specifically within the field of criminal justice. The purpose of this thesis project is to promote social work as a profession and explore its growing impact on the criminal justice system. As part of this effort, it is also intended to dispel the myth that social workers work exclusively in child protection agencies. Viewers will be introduced to exciting opportunities for meaningful change at the emerging intersection of social work and criminal justice, which is becoming increasingly prevalent in American society. This project will also highlight how negative media (news and documentaries like Gabriel Fernandez on Netflix) about social workers employed in the DCS system do not accurately portray current circumstances. This will be accomplished through a short video/documentary-style project that interviews social workers and social service workers employed in the criminal justice field. An interview will consist of questions designed to dispel myths about social workers and promote the diversity of the profession. The purpose of this is to provide an ‘on-the-ground’ perspective of real opportunities in the community, including descriptions of various occupations and the mission of agencies that employ at the cross-section of social work and criminal justice. This is done to enhance the viewers' perception of the field and give them the opportunity to experience real-life situations.